Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling to allow same-sex couples the right to marry in all 50 states, Connecticut lawmakers and others issued these statements:

Comptroller Kevin Lembo, who is openly gay, in a statement:

“What has been apparent to so many for so long has now been affirmed by the court: the premise that all people are equal and share the same rights and responsibilities.

“This decision provides me with personal relief – that no matter where I travel across this great nation of ours – my marriage will be recognized.

“This victory follows years of determination, effort and countless hours of legal work. I’m grateful for those whose shoulders we stand on today. This is the just and right decision.”

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman, in a statement:

Governor Malloy said, “Today’s decision marks a historic moment in U.S. history and reaffirms everything that this great nation stands for – equality, liberty, and justice for all. It’s a day that Americans across our state and country can celebrate. While the State of Connecticut has recognized marriage for same-sex couples since 2008, today’s ruling means that our residents cannot lose their marriage rights while traveling from state to state. In short, couples will get the equality under the law that they rightfully deserve. My wife Cathy and I proudly join all of our friends, both gay and straight, to celebrate today’s ruling and its recognition that the Constitution of the United States serves to protect the rights of all its residents equally.”

Lt. Governor Wyman said, “This decision marks a victory for equality and inclusivity (wes adds sic). At a time when our nation is again facing devastation wrought by violence and bias, this ruling reconnects us to our humanity – our common desire to establish safe communities, build strong families, and be treated fairly and justly under the law. I’m grateful to the pioneers, the leaders, the lawyers, and the couples that stood up to intolerance and bias. These men and women who fought a decades-long war to get us to today. Today’s victory furthers us as a nation, one that is committed to all of our citizens.”

U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-3, in a statement:

“I am thrilled that the Supreme Court has recognized the right to marriage for all Americans, regardless of who they love. Barring LGBTQ Americans from marriage violates the values we hold dear-justice, freedom and equality. It makes no difference whom someone loves and denying them the same rights as heterosexual couples is just plain wrong. Today’s decisions will make us a stronger, fairer and better nation.”

U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Etsy, D-5, in a statement:

“I commend the Supreme Court on its historic decision,” said Rep. Esty. “Today, we celebrate with countless Americans who have faced systematic discrimination because of who they love. Now, all Americans will have equal access to marriage and we have enshrined in our law that same-sex couples deserve the same recognition from their government as their neighbor.

“The Constitution is a living document for a dynamic people. Today’s decision will take its place in the pantheon of historic cases honoring our nation’s enduring promise that every person is deserving of dignity, respect, and equality under the law.

“But let’s remember: this struggle is far from over. This is personal for many families, including my own. My brother had the courage to come out in 1978, when equality was still a distant dream. We still have work to do in our efforts to advance equal rights for all Americans. We need to ensure that no one is denied employment, housing, opportunities, or benefits because of their sexual orientation.”

U.S. Rep. John Larson, D-1, said via Twitter:

“2 years ago today #SCOTUS struck down DOMA. I’m so happy to see them reaffirm that #LoveCantWait in their ruling for #marriageequality today”

Attorney General George Jepsen in a statement:

“I am delighted by the Supreme Court’s ruling upholding a nationwide, constitutional right to marriage equality. I applaud the Court for guaranteeing equality for same sex couples previously denied the right to marry. This decision is also an important vindication for couples in Connecticut whose marriages were previously denied recognition and respect in all states. Indeed, every American benefits by today’s reaffirmation and extension of our national commitment to equality and human dignity – principles at the very heart of our constitutional system of government.”

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, in a statement:

“Today I feel so proud to be a citizen of a country that can have the courage to get right what it got wrong for so long. Who you are, who you love, and what you feel should never be reasons for discrimination. Though we have a long way to go, the Supreme Court’s decision on marriage equality this morning takes a giant stride toward eliminating such prejudices across all institutions in America. I’m thrilled that the justices ruled in favor of common sense and equality, and I stand with them in my unwavering support for the LGBT community.”

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, in a statement:

“This ruling reaffirms why we are the greatest, freest nation in the history of the world – because we respect every individual’s equal right to liberty, no matter where they live, who they are, or whom they love. Today will go down in history as momentous for all Americans, making our nation an even brighter beacon of hope and opportunity for all.

“This ruling marks a transformative moment in our nation’s history, but it builds on everything before. Our gratitude goes to all whose courage and strength and struggle won this day.”